Breaking Through Grief's Timeline Myth with Ligia Houben
Grief doesn't follow a timeline. This powerful truth anchors our profound conversation with grief expert, author, and life transition coach Ligia Houben, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work helping the bereaved navigate life's most challenging transitions.
Ligia shatters common misconceptions about grief, particularly the harmful belief that mourning should end after an arbitrary period. "Our love doesn't have a timeline," she explains, illuminating why grief naturally continues long after loss. Even years later, a special song or meaningful date can trigger powerful emotions – not because we're regressing, but because grief is recurrent, reflecting the eternal nature of love.
Drawing from her experience losing her father suddenly at age 12, Ligia developed the 11 Principles of Transformation, a comprehensive roadmap for those struggling with loss. These principles, which begin with "Accept your loss" and "Live your grief," emphasize the importance of acknowledging reality and validating emotions rather than suppressing them. The number 11 holds special significance – her father died on November 11th (11-11) – a synchronicity that confirmed for Ligia she was on the right path.
While discussing the famous stages of grief, Ligia offers a refreshing perspective: not everyone experiences all stages, and they rarely unfold linearly. Acceptance doesn't mean being "okay" with loss, but rather acknowledging reality and consciously choosing how to move forward. Through practical strategies like journaling and physical exercise, Ligia demonstrates how we can actively engage with grief, transforming overwhelming suffering into a place of honoring loved ones through love.
Ready to transform your relationship with grief? Visit LigiaHouben.com to discover Ligia's books, bilingual podcast, and programs designed to help you navigate loss with strength, hope, and profound love.
Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600
